New Port Replicator Eliminates Digging Behind Your Computer To Plug Things In

Marathon Computer, maker of products used to rack-mount your Mac, has announced a new device that will help alleviate the pain of digging behind your computer to plug in that new USB, FireWire, or audio device. The RePorter is a pod with all three types of connections running through one cable that connects to the appropriate ports behind the computer. From Marathon:

Marathon Computer, makers of rackmount solutions and other accessories for Macintosh, has announced a new addition to its lineup of products for the desktop Macintosh user.

"The RePorter is an elegant solution to a problem facing most desktop Macintosh users every day: an easy, convenient way to get to the ports on the back of the machine," says Marathon spokesman David Soch.

The RePorter is a simple, compact extension, through a single cable, of the FireWire, USB and audio ports usually located on the backplane of a desktop Macintosh. Rather than add size or mass to the design so that it will stay put on your desk, Marathon has chosen a more elegant approach. "The design of the RePorter begs to be picked up and cradled in your hand," explains Soch. "It doesnit have any fixed iupi or idowni orientation. You donit have to steady the box on your desk while you plug into it, and you donit have cables trying to torque the box off of its feet."

RePorter features include:

  • A single cable with connectors to the rear ports of your Macintosh.
  • Rugged high-impact plastic housing.
  • Two Type A standard flat USB ports.
  • FireWire 400- and 800- compatible ports.
  • Stereo 1/8" in and out mini audio ports.

The RePorter is slated to begin shipping at the end of Summer 2003. Introductory pricing is set at US$99, and Marathon is accepting pre-orders. You can find more information at Marathonis Web site.